The Catholic Student Network of Northern Thailand hosted 11 Vietnamese students and their chaplain during an international exchange programme in Chiang Mai from 20 to 29 January. There was great excitement—and a little anxiety about the language barrier.
In Thailand, we have a beautiful tradition known as “buddy caring”. Each Vietnamese student was paired with two local students to provide guidance and support. Through this, friendships blossomed quickly. Language differences no longer felt like obstacles; instead, they became invitations to learn more about one another. Laughter filled our days, and joy was written clearly on every face.
The programme comprised three parts: (1) discovering the daily lives of Thai students, (2) learning how Thai students collaborate and strengthen their network through the Children’s Day project, and (3) camping and reflection, culminating in a cultural night.
During the first part, we explored Chiang Mai together, joined a graduation celebration at Chiang Mai University, and enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere of the winter festival. Each shared experience drew us closer and deepened our sense of connection.
The second part centred on Children’s Day. In Thailand, January is traditionally known as the Month of Children. Embracing this spirit, we organised a special project with the hope of creating joyful and meaningful memories for the children of Prapaport School in Bo Kaeo, Samoeng District. In addition to our Vietnamese guests, we invited students from different universities and various parts of Thailand, including Bangkok, Lampang, and Chiang Mai, and guests from Singapore and the United States.
All 60 of us were warmly welcomed by nearly 100 children, from kindergarten to elementary. We began with indoor games and lively performances—presented both by our students and the children. Then we celebrated Mass in Vietnamese, offering our gratitude and intentions to God. During dinner, we shared a barbecue and sang karaoke. It was a truly special moment. Beyond differences in language and culture, friendships grew naturally among the participants. The food was lovingly prepared by our students, and as we enjoyed the meal, we formed small groups of three, each made up of different nationalities, to sing or dance together. In this energetic and welcoming atmosphere, even those who were initially shy found the courage to express themselves. As they later shared, they felt they had rediscovered something within themselves through the openness, joy, and friendship we experienced together.
The next day started with a Thanksgiving Mass celebrated in Thai. After breakfast, the children divided into six groups and joyfully joined a series of games, rotating through each activity so that everyone could fully participate. The entire morning was filled with laughter, excited voices, and high spirits. We then shared lunch together, enjoying a special Thai noodle dish. Before saying goodbye, each child received a small gift—a doll and some school supplies—along with ice cream. As they bid us goodbye, the children embraced us warmly. It was a deeply touching farewell. We learnt that how we give is more important than what we give. We began this journey thinking we had come to give, but in truth, we received far more than we expected. We witnessed the innocence of the children, felt the pure joy of human connection, and experienced laughter that washed away the worries of study and the busyness of city life. Through them, we rediscovered our own childhood.
The final part of our programme was a camping activity at Doi Inthanon. In the cold mountain air, we shared Mass, hotpot, and deep conversations about our lives. We came to realise that the language that truly helps us understand one another does not consist in words but in the openness of heart and genuine care. As we trekked through nature and admired its beauty, we also discovered a deeper bond through prayer and reflection. United as members of the Catholic Student Network, we were gathered by God and called to share His love.
Our journey concluded with a cultural night. We shared Vietnamese and Thai food, exchanged gifts, and enjoyed performances from both cultures. As the time of farewell slowly arrived, laughter mingled with tears. We embraced one another, offered small tokens of remembrance, and held onto the hope that we would meet again.
Although nine days felt short, they were long enough to build deep and meaningful friendships. We shared abundant joy and countless precious moments. Thanks be to God for this wonderful opportunity, and heartfelt thanks to our Vietnamese friends for being part of this journey. We miss you all already. May God bless us all.
